Sports & Recreation
Whether you are in Burlington for a sports tournament, a visit with family and friends or a weekend getaway, we have a variety of indoor and outdoor facilities to tempt sport & recreation enthusiasts year-round.
Burlington is a spectacular location for sports and recreation. Nestled between Lake Ontario and the Escarpment, we have everything from trails to waterfront, all year long. Try walking, hiking, skiing, jogging, cross-country, and cycling, golf at our 9 different courses, and make a splash at the waterfront.
Activities to try
Birding
Bird watching is the fastest-growing hobby in the world. It’s one of the few activities people can do more of as they get older, it is inexpensive and available to everyone. There are many opportunities for you to try birding in Burlington. Burlington is home to species that only recently have become established in Ontario. We are fortunate to have so many trails, parks, and gardens that are prime birding locations, no matter if you’re a beginner or a pro. Find more information on birding here.
Cycling
Did you know that Burlington has been awarded the Bicycle Friendly Community Award Silver designation by Share the Road Cycling Coalition? Burlington and the surrounding area is a wonderful place to cycle in all seasons with scenic rural roads, picturesque waterfront trails and historic downtown routes. Visit our Visitor Centre for trail maps of Burlington and the surrounding areas, and find more information on cycling here.
Equestrian
In the Halton area, you will find many premier horse breeding farms, coaching and training facilities, clinics, riding schools, summer camps, birthday parties, boarding stables, equestrian ranches, suppliers (including farriers, veterinarians, feed, bedding and tack shops) and a wide range of events. Visit Halton’s Simply Local: Horse Farms and Recreation Activities for a complete list of equestrian establishments in Halton. If you prefer to be a spectator you can enjoy fast-paced harness racing action on Woodbine at Mohawk Racetrack’s one-of-a-kind 7/8-mile oval track, open seasonally.
Fishing
Burlington is situated in the midst of many natural waterways perfect for fishing. Visit Conservation Halton Parks and sit by the shore with your line in the water, or spend the day at Bronte Creek Provincial Park for migratory species in the river. Also, be sure to check out the Royal Botanical Gardens Fishway to see how they work to protect native species and wetlands from invasive species. Find more information on locations, fish species, and regulations here.
Geocaching
Geocaching is a great opportunity to get out and explore new areas or find hidden treasures in your own community. Spend a few hours or plan a day trip to the Burlington area to find one of many hidden geocaches in the Halton Region.
- Bronte Creek – has 2-4 virtual geocaches available
- Royal Botanical Gardens – Offers geocaching programs in some of their camps, youth programs and birthday parties
- Conservation Halton – Please check with Conservation Halton before hiding a cache to avoid interfering with environmentally sensitive areas
Golf
Burlington is a golfers’ paradise featuring nine pristine golf courses within the city limits. Many of these courses are open to the public and provide a country club atmosphere. Additionally, most include a driving range, putting green, banquet and or dining facilities and a fully stocked pro shop.
In Burlington, you will find a golfing experience ideally suited to your level of play from mini-putt to indoor simulations to keep up your game. Many of the courses have beautiful scenic views of the lake, escarpment or countryside.
Hiking
From hiking the majestic Niagara Escarpment cliffs of several Conservation areas to enjoying Lake Ontario views along the Waterfront and Trans Canada Trail, there are trails for all levels of hikers in Burlington. There are also multi-use pathways located throughout the city that are used by hikers, cyclists, joggers, skateboarders etc. For trail maps and recommendations, visit the Visitor Information Centre, and find more information on hiking in Burlington here.
Rock Climbing
For outdoor climbing, visit Rattlesnake Point. With three designated climbing areas and over 200 routes, climbers have the opportunity to take on challenging cliffs and enjoy the beautiful views. Instructional and recreational climbing is available. Another gorgeous spot to rock climb is Mount Nemo, with 200-plus routes, climbers will never get bored here. Climbers need to have helmets, shoes, harnesses, ropes, and other safety equipment to ensure safe climbing.
For indoor climbing, Climber’s Rock offers a variety of options including bouldering and high ropes, perfect for both people who are just starting to climb or those who are more advanced. The benefits of indoor rock climbing include getting a great workout no matter the weather, learning about climbing safety, and working with instructors to improve your ability. Rookies to the sport can book an introductory lesson with a professional and become a member of the gym if they can’t get enough. Shoes and other supplies are available for rent; visit their website for more information.
Water Sports
With over 20 km of shoreline along Lake Ontario, Burlington is a fabulous location for water sports of all sorts. Burlington Beach Rentals offers day and weekend packages available, complete with floaties, beach chairs, and umbrellas, for delivery in Burlington or right to the beach! Or visit Kelso Conservation Area and take a dip in the reservoir. Canoe, pedal boat, and kayak rentals are available. Reservation’s required. The City of Burlington also has a beautiful boat launch location at LaSalle Park Community Marina.
Not a fan of the sand? Cool off in one of Canada’s largest outdoor pools at Bronte Creek Provincial Park, or visit the many indoor and outdoor city pools. Also check out the many splash pads across Burlington.
Winter Sports
Take advantage of our Canadian winters in Burlington. Hit the slopes at Glen Eden Ski and Snowboard Centre. You can also take a walk in a winter wonderland by snowshoeing or cross-country skiing the trails at Conservation Halton Parks. Lace up your skates at the Burlington Rotary Centennial Pond for free skating overlooking Lake Ontario, or visit a drop in session at a community rink. Also, try tobogganing down the six designated hilly areas across the city.
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